"(The park) is a gateway into downtown and a keyhole for the neighborhood," Councilman Andrew Frounfelker, 5th Ward, said at the event. "It will be great to upgrade it and create a new space for area residents to come together."

Jackson Mayor Jason Smith thanked city employees and engineers for their work on the project Tuesday.

"I look forward to seeing it when it's completed," he said.

Members of the Partnership Park Downtown Neighborhood Association were also on hand at the groundbreaking ceremony. The park is within the neighborhood association's district.

Association member Wanda Beavers said she and others within the association are excited about the project.

"Every little bit helps," she said.

Contact Will Forgrave at wforgrav@mlive.com or 517-262-7554. Follow him on Twitter at @WillForgrave.